Success factors of deep tech incubators. A qualitative study

Type
04B - Conference paper
Editor (Corporation)
Supervisor
Parent work
Proceedings of the 19th European Conference on Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Special issue
DOI of the original publication
Link
Series
Series number
19
Volume
1
Issue / Number
Pages / Duration
507-514
Patent number
Publisher / Publishing institution
Place of publication / Event location
Paris
Edition
Version
Programming language
Assignee
Practice partner / Client
Abstract
Deep tech start-ups, characterized by their focus on groundbreaking technologies and scientific advancements, face unique challenges that demand specialized support systems for their development and market entry. This paper presents a qualitative analysis based on ten interviews with managers of deep tech incubators, exploring the services offered, critical success factors, challenges and anticipated future changes. The services provided by incubators are comprehensive, ranging from technical and business mentorship to assistance in regulatory processes and access to financial resources. The study identifies that the success of deep tech incubators depends on customized support for start-ups, access to expertise and facilities, and a strong ecosystem and community network. Customized support ensures that the unique needs of each start-up are met, while access to technical resources and a vibrant network facilitates innovation and growth. Challenges such as cultural and mindset differences, operational difficulties, and regulatory navigation underscore the complex landscape in which these incubators operate. Anticipated changes within the next few years include a shift in investment focus towards projects with significant societal impact, an increase in international collaboration, and a deeper recognition of deep tech's role in solving global challenges. This paper contributes to the understanding of deep tech incubation, highlighting the support required to foster innovation in this sector. The insights from this study can inform policymakers, investors, and managers of deep tech incubators on fostering a conducive environment for innovation and growth in the deep tech sector.
Keywords
Subject (DDC)
Project
Event
19th European Conference on Innovationand Entrepreneurship (ECIE) 2024
Exhibition start date
Exhibition end date
Conference start date
26.09.2024
Conference end date
27.09.2024
Date of the last check
ISBN
978-1-917204-15-6
978-1-917204-14-9
ISSN
Language
English
Created during FHNW affiliation
Yes
Strategic action fields FHNW
Publication status
Published
Review
Peer review of the complete publication
Open access category
Diamond
License
'https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/'
Citation
Meyer, D., Colonna, F., & Meyer, R. (2024). Success factors of deep tech incubators. A qualitative study. In S. Buisine (Ed.), Proceedings of the 19th European Conference on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Vol. 1, pp. 507–514). https://doi.org/10.34190/ecie.19.1.2609